Police cordoned off the church to investigate and have sent the ear to the Home Office pathologist to be analysed.

Results are expected next week and officers will launch an investigation if the body part is found to be "current rather than historic".

A spokeswoman said on Thursday: "Thames Valley Police is currently investigating a report received from a member of the public who believed that they found a body part in the grounds of St Mary's Church, St Mary's Square, Aylesbury.

"Police were called at 6.37pm by a man who was walking his dog and discovered what he believed may be a human ear.

"Investigations are currently ongoing by police and a scene watch was in place this morning, but has now been lifted."

In a post on its Facebook page, the church said: "St Mary's is at the moment CLOSED due to the current Police Investigation. We are unable to say at the moment when we will be able to open. We will keep everyone updated as soon as we have any further news. We apologise for any inconvenience caused."

In a later update, the church announced it had reopened and radio broadcasts from its premises would be going ahead.